Arab News Japan

TOKYO: Several thousand Japanese paid tribute to film music composer SAKAMOTO Ryuichi on April 22, 2023 by condemning the planned felling of thousands of trees in Jingu Gaien Park opposite the National Olympic Stadium.

Environmental activists gave speeches of protest against the high rise construction planned by Tokyo Metropolitan Government as part of the urban renewal that has been officially validated by Governor KOIKE Yuriko. 

A colorful crowd made up of young workers and young parents took advantage of the abundant nature and electronic music to dance to the sound of music dear to the recently deceased Sakamoto as a baseball match between the Yakult and Giants was taking place in the stadium opposite, 

Shortly before his death from cancer, composer Sakamoto Ryuichi wrote letters of protest to the governor of Tokyo, the mayor of Shinjuku, the ministry of the environment and the national head of cultural affairs.

Activist Rachelle Kopp, who initiated the petition not to cut down the trees, urged participants to keep themselves informed of future actions via email and SNS, she added that participants in the rally should consider choosing a candidate who opposed the felling of trees in Sunday’s municipal elections.